From the Head of Senior School

As we begin another exciting school year, I extend a warm welcome to all our students, particularly our new Year 7 students and those joining our school community for the first time. Starting at a new school can be both exciting and challenging, but please know that you are now part of a supportive and dynamic community. We are committed to assisting you in navigating this new chapter with confidence and enthusiasm.

The first two weeks of this term have been both busy and rewarding, especially for our Year 7 students, who have experienced their inaugural week of lessons with their new teachers. Transitioning to high school is a significant milestone, and here are some tips to help your child acclimate successfully:

Encourage participation: Motivate your child to engage in co-curriculars and other activities to foster new friendships and enhance their connection to the school community.
Promote positivity: Acknowledge that feelings of nervousness are common, while encouraging your child to maintain a positive and open mindset. Each day presents a new opportunity for learning and personal growth.
Foster enquiry: If your child has questions or uncertainties, encourage them to seek assistance from their House Tutor, teachers or older peers. Everyone has experienced being new, and they can offer valuable support and understanding.
Support organisation skills: Assist your child in effectively managing their timetable, homework and important deadlines. Encourage them to check their emails and Astra daily, and to use their diary to help them stay organised and alleviate stress.

For our Year 12 students, this year signifies the culmination of your high school experience. It is a period that will be filled with both challenges and achievements as you prepare for your final examinations and contemplate the next steps in your academic and personal lives. Remember that you possess the strength and resilience to navigate any challenges that may arise. Please don't hesitate to seek support from your teachers, peers and family, and take pride in the progress you have made.

To our Year 11 students, welcome to the beginning of your VCE journey. This marks an important phase in your academic path, presenting both responsibilities and opportunities. Below are some tips to help all our Senior School students achieve success this year and beyond:

Maintain organisation: Keep a detailed record of your assignments, deadlines and study schedules. Using a planner or digital calendar can be highly beneficial.
Seek assistance: Feel free to reach out to your teachers for clarification or help. They are available to provide support.
Prioritise balance: While academic success is important, it is equally essential to allocate time for personal wellbeing. Participate in co-curricular activities, nurture relationships with friends and family, and prioritise your mental and physical health.

Effective organisational skills are vital for students to successfully manage their academic responsibilities alongside social and co-curricular activities. This is particularly important as students progress towards Year 10 and beyond, when educational demands typically increase.

To support Senior School students in their organisation and planning, each student has been provided with a diary. The design of this new diary has been influenced by feedback from students and the Student Delegate Council. Using a diary enhances organisation, sharpens focus, aids in planning, and provides clarity at the start of each day. It also helps to enhance memory retention and mitigate procrastination by allowing students to manage their time more effectively. Students are encouraged to bring their diary home daily and to use it in each lesson.

Parents of younger students can play an important role by assisting their children in using the diary while monitoring and encouraging their organisational skills. While adapting to a diary may be a new challenge for some students, with time and support from the school, we anticipate seeing significant improvement in their organisational abilities. Should you have any concerns regarding your child's organisational skills, please feel free to reach out to their House Tutor.

Dawn Davis

Head of Senior School